Plugs, phones & digital Thailand

See below for a few tips on what to take to Thailand as the country rapidly embraces the digital age.

Back to all travel tips

Throughout Thailand 220 volt, 50 AC appliances are used, although some of the bigger hotels may use 110-volt electrical appliances. Plugs are usually twin pin and so electrical appliances will normally require an adaptor. Most of the better hotels will have a hair-dryer in the room, or you can ask for one at the reception desk.

Generally speaking there is good Internet, Wi-Fi and mobile phone coverage throughout Thailand, but please note that some of the smaller islands and more remote areas may not be fully covered. Increasingly hotels will offer Wi-Fi access in the lobby, or sometimes your room. Larger hotels may make a charge for this, but many smaller hotels include Wi-Fi access in their rates.

If you plan to make occasional use of your mobile phone whilst abroad you should receive a text on arrival, from your phone provider, outlining the costs to make and receive calls and text messages. The cost of making and receiving calls can be quite expensive, but text messages are normally free to receive and cost around £0.50 to send. Unless you have a suitable tariff, avoid using your phone provider to use the Internet as data roaming charges can be very expensive. If using a local Internet connection on your mobile / tablet ensure the settings are Wi-Fi enabled.

If you choose not to take your mobile or tablet most hotels will have access to a PC, or a business centre, for online communication.
Failing that there are Internet cafes all over Thailand and rates for Internet access range from THB50 per hour. If you are taking an iPad, or other sort of tablet, then you will be able to download a range of applications that offer assistance with speaking Thai, or that provide country guides, or maps, of Thailand.